Chimène Doffenies
Embroiderer
Chaon, France
The many facets of embroidery
- Chimène views herself as an ever-adapting artist
- Her very first project involved working on a Dior dress
- The art of crochet was passed down to her from her mother
Chimène Doffenies specialises in hand embroidery, crochet and featherwork. Her introduction to crochet began when she was little, guided by her mother, but it was only after leaving an uninspiring job that she discovered her true passion for embroidery. In 2017, she began her professional journey, contributing to prestigious projects like a Dior dress. However, in 2020, she fulfilled her dream by opening her own workshop. Mastering techniques from Lunéville embroidery to Irish lace crochet, Chimène showcases the depth of her expertise. While grounded in tradition, she embraces modernity, experimenting with colours, materials, and abstract patterns. Constantly adapting her craft, she considers herself an eclectic artist, transitioning from one universe to another with every new project. This flexibility leads her to collaborate with various creators on projects ranging from fans and clothing to furniture and chandeliers.
INTERVIEW
I had just quit my job. I could no longer stand those jobs that one can do but with no appeal. I had been practising crochet at home as a hobby for as long as I could remember and I found myself alone at home, with my crochet hooks in my hands. That is when it seemed obvious to me that this was what I should be doing.
In part. It is true that globalisation has harmed the fashion industry, but we must not forget that what takes time is expensive. What is expensive is not accessible to everyone. Artistic crafts like embroidery and featherwork are niche professions.
People often imagine that embroidery or featherwork is soft, beautiful, and enjoyable. They picture us crocheting by the fireside. No one suspects the precision required, the painstaking detail, the weeks of impossible hours for certain projects, or even the repetition of gestures thousands of times a day.
At the 2021 Salon du Chocolat in Paris, I collaborated with the renowned chocolatier François Daubinet, crafting an 'Haute Couture' chocolate dress designed by Elsa Muse. With 3,000 chocolate disks, 70 hours of embroidery in a cold October workshop, the result was a stunning creation showcased in a brief 2-minute walk down the catwalk!
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